Learn From `Friendly Fire` Tragedy

May 9, 1992

Among the most tragic victims of any war are the casualties of what is ironically referred to as ``friendly fire.``

People who send their loved ones into harm`s way are well aware of the risks of the modern battlefield, but the loss of a spouse or child is particularly difficult to accept when death is mistakenly caused by a comrade in arms.

An especially wrenching proceeding is now under way in Oxford, England, for the relatives of nine British soldiers killed by missiles launched from an American A-10 anti-tank jet during last year`s Persian Gulf War.

Amid the confusion of the allies` rapid advance across the Iraqi desert on the first day of the ground war, two British Warrior armored vehicles were attacked by A-10s hunting Iraqi tanks.

Fourteen months after the event, the circumstances of that deadly mistake remain in doubt.

The current inquest is the third attempt to establish the truth after British and American reports differed significantly on what happened. Relatives of the victims have accused both governments of a cover-up and are bitter because the A-10 pilots were not sent to testify.

The inquest`s jury cannot assign guilt, but can return a verdict of unlawful killing, death by misadventure, accidental death or ``open.``

Both London and Washington should insist on a full and open airing of the facts, not only to help assuage the grief of survivors, but also to provide lessons that may avoid similar tragedies in the future.